NYC Summer Activities Under $100
New York has a reputation for being expensive, and honestly...sometimes it is.
But having an amazing summer in the city doesn't require dropping hundreds of dollars on rooftop reservations or Broadway tickets. Some of the best NYC memories come from wandering neighborhoods, discovering hidden gems, and finding those uniquely New York experiences you can't get anywhere else.
Whether you're visiting for a weekend, a week, or checking off your summer bucket list, here are some of our favorite NYC activities under $100.
Build an Italian Charm Bracelet at The Niche Shop
Budget: $30-$100+
If you're looking for a souvenir that's a little more personal than an "I ❤️ NY" t-shirt, building an Italian charm bracelet is one of the most fun things to do in NYC.
At The Niche Shop's Charm Bar, you can choose from hundreds of charms inspired by New York City, food, travel, pets, pop culture, hobbies, and just about every niche interest imaginable.
No appointment needed—just stop by and start building.
Trade the Observation Deck for a Rooftop Cocktail
Budget: $20–$80
Want incredible views of New York City without paying for an observation deck ticket?
Instead of heading to the Empire State Building, grab a cocktail and take in the skyline from Rooftop 230. Located in Midtown, this rooftop offers a gorgeous view on the city as well as plenty of instagram worthy photo ops!
It's the perfect place to cool off after a day of exploring, catch the sunset, and experience one of New York's favorite summer traditions: rooftop season.
Browse the Stalls at Grand Bazaar NYC
Budget: Free to browse
If you love vintage shopping, handmade goods, and unique finds, Grand Bazaar NYC is worth adding to your itinerary.
Located on the Upper West Side, this massive market features vintage clothing, jewelry, art, antiques, home goods, and local makers. Every visit feels a little different, which is part of the fun.
Even if you're not shopping, it's a great place to experience a side of New York that feels more local than touristy.
Rent a Rowboat in Central Park
Budget: Around $25-$30
Few things feel more like a movie scene than rowing across Central Park's lake on a summer afternoon.
The Loeb Boathouse rowboats offer one of the most iconic New York experiences, complete with skyline views, tree-lined paths, and plenty of people pretending they're in a romantic comedy.
It's surprisingly affordable and makes for incredible photos.
Take the NYC Ferry
Budget: Around $5
One of the cheapest sightseeing activities in the city is also one of the best.
The NYC Ferry offers incredible views of the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn waterfront, bridges, and the East River for the price of a subway ride.
The Niche Shop rec: Walk the brooklyn bridge, end up in Dumbo, grab a slice of pizza then hop on the ferry to Williamsburg for some more bopping around!
Visit The Met
Budget: Around $30
You could easily spend an entire day at The Metropolitan Museum of Art.
From ancient Egyptian artifacts and European masterpieces to rooftop views and rotating exhibitions, The Met remains one of the city's must-visit attractions.
Pro tip: Save time afterward to explore the surrounding Upper East Side neighborhood - check out our full guide on what to do around the Met here:
Watch a Free Outdoor Movie
Budget: Free
Summer in New York means outdoor movie season.
Parks across the city host free movie nights throughout the summer, offering everything from cult classics to family favorites. One of our favorites is the Bryant Park movie nights - Check the lineup via the Bryant Park Calendar here:
Bring a blanket, grab snacks, and enjoy a movie with the skyline as your backdrop.
Have Breakfast at Tiffany's
Budget: Free–$40
Channel your inner Audrey Hepburn and start your morning with a visit to Tiffany & Co. on Fifth Avenue.
Browse the iconic jewelry displays, admire the famous blue boxes, and soak up one of New York's most recognizable fashion landmarks. If you're feeling extra fancy, stop by the in-store café on the 6th floor for the full Breakfast at Tiffany's experience.
Even if you're just window shopping, it's one of those classic NYC moments that feels straight out of a movie.
Create a Custom Perfume at OLFACTORY
Budget: Around $85
Looking for a souvenir that's a little more personal than a keychain or magnet? Create a custom fragrance that perfectly encapsulates your NYC trip.
Head over to OLFACTORY, and create a custom fragrance that's completely your own. Whether your trip smells like fresh flowers in Central Park, or your favorite neighborhood coffee shop, you'll head home with a one-of-a-kind keepsake that's far more memorable than anything you'll find in a gift shop.
It's creative, unique, and one of the coolest NYC experiences under $100.
Catch a Yankees or Mets Game
Budget: $20-$100
You don't have to be a baseball fan to enjoy the experience.
There's something undeniably New York about spending a summer evening eating stadium snacks, people-watching, and cheering along with thousands of locals.
Look for weekday games and last-minute tickets for some of the best deals.
You don't need a luxury budget to have an unforgettable summer in New York City.
Some of the best experiences cost less than dinner, and many are completely free. Whether you're building an Italian charm bracelet, exploring new neighborhoods, wandering a vintage market, or catching a ferry at sunset, these activities prove that the best parts of NYC aren't always the most expensive.